The Smithsonian Science Education Center (SSEC) is offering an exciting internship program for students and emerging professionals interested in transforming K–12 science education. With its mission of Transforming K–12 Education Through Science™, the SSEC collaborates with communities around the world to develop cutting-edge STEM curriculum, support teacher development, and strengthen leadership in science education. Unlike many Smithsonian units, the SSEC does not conduct laboratory research or museum education placements. Instead, it provides a unique opportunity to gain experience in curriculum development, program evaluation, and leadership in STEM education.
The application deadline is March 13, 2026.
About the Internship Program by Smithsonian Science Education Center
Internships at SSEC vary in focus but share a common goal: preparing interns to engage in the world of STEM learning and educational design. Opportunities span research, curriculum development, educational leadership, and strategic planning. Internship eligibility requirements differ by position, and students at different academic levels—undergraduate, graduate, and international students—are welcome to apply if they meet the criteria for their chosen role.
Applications are submitted through the Smithsonian’s central application portal, SOLAA, where candidates select up to three program areas that align with their interests. After review, selected candidates will be invited for a phone interview.
2026 Internship Opportunities
The SSEC is offering several structured internship pathways in 2026. Each provides hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to STEM education at a national level.
Research Assistant Intern
This intern will join the Professional Services team to support evaluation of SSEC leadership programs. Responsibilities include:
- Assisting in survey development and revision
- Collecting and organizing data from program participants
- Conducting quantitative and qualitative analysis, including descriptive statistics, t-tests, thematic coding, and case studies
- Supporting the creation of evaluation reports
Ideal candidates demonstrate strong analytical skills, interest in science or education research, and experience with data analysis tools such as SPSS. Graduate students or those who have completed research methodology coursework are preferred. This virtual, full-time internship lasts ten weeks between June and August 2026.
STEAM Schools of Distinction Intern
This role supports the planning and delivery of the 2026 STEAM Schools of Distinction Strategic Planning Institute, a major initiative aimed at helping schools transform STEM education. Tasks include:
- Learning the LASER model for education transformation
- Conducting research on science and sustainability education
- Supporting program development, partnership building, and event coordination
- Assisting the creation of materials for virtual and in-person programming
This internship runs for ten weeks starting in June 2026, with hybrid or in-person options. Undergraduate and graduate students may apply, though additional hours are required leading up to the Strategic Planning Institute.
Smithsonian Science for the Classroom Intern
This internship focuses on curriculum development for middle school science instruction. Interns will:
- Collaborate with curriculum developers to design nonfiction stories for NGSS-aligned science units
- Conduct research and expert interviews across Earth, life, physical science, and engineering fields
- Draft, revise, and prepare student-facing texts
- Identify images, illustrations, and manage permissions for published materials
Candidates must demonstrate strong writing, research skills, and the ability to translate complex science into engaging, age-appropriate narratives. This hybrid internship runs for eight weeks between May 11 and August 14, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
SSEC offers flexible scheduling, modest stipends, and opportunities to earn academic credit depending on university requirements. International students may participate if they have proper authorization such as CPT approval. Applicants must submit a résumé, learning goals essay, references, and—where applicable—writing or design samples.
Work hours typically run between 8:30 am and 5:30 pm (ET), but virtual internships offer flexible arrangements for students balancing coursework or time-zone differences.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted through SOLAA by March 13, 2026.
Applicants are encouraged to submit early due to limited internship slots.
Application can be accessed from here.
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